I recently returned from a transformative 7-day Vitality and Longevity Retreat on the Greek island of Ikaria, known as the “island where people forget to die.” This small Aegean island has captured global attention for the remarkable longevity of its inhabitants, many of whom live well into their 90s and 100s while remaining active and engaged. While there’s no single factor that can be pinpointed as the “fountain of youth,” a combination of lifestyle choices, community values, diet, and stress management seem to contribute to the Ikarians’ long, happy, and healthy lives.
In this blog, I’ll highlight some of the key factors that I observed on the island, with a special focus on community, hiking, and the Ikarian approach to time and stress—all of which offer valuable lessons for the rest of us.
The Secrets of Ikarian Longevity: A Life Rooted in Community, Movement, and Calm
- The Power of Community: Strong Social Bonds That Sustain Life
One of the most striking things about Ikaria is the depth of connection among its people. Unlike in many Western societies, where individualism often reigns, the Ikarian community is a pillar of daily life. People help and support one another, knowing that mutual aid is a foundation for happiness and well-being.
In Ikaria, everyone knows each other, and relationships run deep. Neighbours drop by unannounced for coffee or a glass of local wine, and gatherings often become spontaneous social events that stretch into the night. There’s a profound sense of togetherness, whether it’s celebrating life events or supporting each other through difficulties. This sense of community provides a built-in social network that reduces loneliness, fosters a sense of belonging, and contributes to emotional well-being.
Ikarians take care of one another, from helping with daily chores to providing emotional and financial support when needed. The elderly are particularly respected and remain integral members of society, participating fully in community activities. This contrasts starkly with the isolation many seniors face in Western cultures, where independence often leads to loneliness. In Ikaria, elders are celebrated, and their wisdom and experience are seen as invaluable.
Research has consistently shown that strong social bonds are linked to better health outcomes, both mental and physical. The support networks in Ikaria serve as a kind of safety net, reducing stress and offering people a greater sense of purpose.
- Hiking: Natural Movement in Everyday Life
While Western culture often encourages deliberate exercise regimens or gym memberships, Ikarians have a more organic approach to staying active. The rugged, hilly landscape of the island makes walking up and down steep paths a part of daily life. Whether it’s walking to a neighbor’s house or tending to their gardens, Ikarians are constantly moving, but in a way that’s natural and integrated into their routines.
Hiking in Ikaria is not a planned exercise but rather a necessity. The island’s terrain requires its inhabitants to engage in frequent uphill walks, which challenge the cardiovascular system and strengthen muscles, all while being immersed in nature. These natural forms of movement are key contributors to their vitality.
What makes this even more powerful is the fact that these walks are often communal activities. Friends and neighbors often hike together, combining the benefits of physical exercise with social engagement. This dual aspect—staying active while maintaining social bonds—creates an environment where physical activity is not a chore but a joyful part of daily living.
For Ikarians, being outdoors, breathing in the fresh mountain air, and feeling the warmth of the sun are essential parts of their well-being. Their activity isn’t confined to a gym but is woven into the very fabric of their lives, allowing them to stay fit without overexertion or stress.
- A Slow Pace of Life: Time as a Friend, Not a Foe
If there’s one thing that truly sets Ikarians apart, it’s their relationship with time and stress. In Ikaria, the clock doesn’t dictate people’s lives. They take things slow, often embracing a “mañana” attitude—what doesn’t get done today can be finished tomorrow. This relaxed approach reduces the constant rush that many of us experience in fast-paced modern cities.
Time in Ikaria flows differently. There’s no obsession with deadlines or to-do lists. Meals, for instance, are leisurely events, enjoyed in the company of loved ones and often stretched out over hours. People take time to savor their food, engage in deep conversation, and enjoy the moment. This unhurried lifestyle is a stark contrast to the typical work-focused hustle culture found in many parts of the Western world.
Furthermore, Ikarians are masters at handling stress. Rather than letting life’s difficulties weigh them down, they adopt a resilient attitude, letting things unfold at their own pace. This doesn’t mean they live stress-free lives, but they have a unique ability to put things into perspective, often laughing off challenges or taking breaks to enjoy life.
Stress has been well-documented as a silent killer, contributing to a range of health issues from heart disease to cognitive decline. The Ikarian approach to managing stress, combined with their communal lifestyle and slow pace, plays a crucial role in their extended lifespan.
Lessons from Ikaria
The Ikarian way of life reminds us that longevity is not about finding a magic pill or following strict health regimens. Rather, it’s about adopting a lifestyle rooted in community, movement, and a relaxed approach to life.
- Community: Surround yourself with people who care about you, take time to foster deep social connections, and help others without expecting anything in return.
- Natural Movement: Integrate activity into your daily routine—walk, garden, hike, and keep moving naturally rather than through forced or unnatural exercises.
- Take Time: Slow down and be present. Eat slowly, enjoy time with loved ones, and don’t let the pressures of time dominate your life.
For more picture of hiking, swimming, getting involved with the Ikarian community – dancing, practicing yoga together, follow me on my instagram yogak_yoga_wellness page to see posts from Ikaria Retreat and, regular posts about future retreats, longevity, yoga, hiking, community and healthy longevity recipes…
Email me directly – julia@juliakhealthyliving.com or sign up for my Sunday Slow Newsletter to be the first to know about 2025 Ikaria Dates… we are going back to learn more, to immerse ourselves more in the Ikarian way of life. Come with us!
with love,
Julia xx